Second Semester Upper School Torch Awards

On April 23 after our All-School Mass, we had the honor of presenting the Dominican Torch Award to four of our outstanding Upper School students.  The Dominican Torch Award, presented twice a year, recognizes those students who live their daily lives in a way that reflects the Four Pillars of Study, Prayer, Community and Service.

Classmates and faculty members nominated the award recipients because they noticed something special about them and the ways in which they live out the Gospel daily. These students uphold our standards of conduct and represent the core values of our school community and reflect God’s love in beautiful ways.

Congratulations to the following award recipients! Please enjoy these excerpts from their nomination forms–they make it easy to understand why these students were chosen by their fellow classmates and teachers:

Emily Chittick, SAA Grade 9

One student wrote, “Emily Chittick exhibits the Pillar of Prayer. Every Mass she is one of the students who is the most engaged. She takes each Mass to heart and every lesson we learn in Theology. A day doesn't go by where she doesn't represent the Holy Spirit.”

Another student shared, “Emily is a strong example of Service. When I think of Emily, I think of someone who inspires others to be kind. Emily never fails to bring a smile to my face. I remember one time I was having an awful day, and Emily comforted me and made my mood rise.”

A teacher wrote, “Emily’s strong faith is evident in the way she treats others and carries herself every day.  She works hard at school and is very dedicated to her studies and responsibilities.  Emily exudes kindness to others. Emily is an example to others of living the Four Pillars in your daily life.”

Maliyah Williams, SAA Grade 10

A classmate wrote: “Maliyah exhibits the Pillars of Study, Prayer, Community and Service in every aspect of her life. She is the friend you can come to when you are struggling, whether it is with friends, school, or just life. She is kind to all around her and listens with a desire to help. I can always come to her and know that she will never judge me. Maliyah is a perfect example of the Pillar of Service. She sets a personal goal of completing 100 service hours a year and yet is so humble and truly cares about the people she helps.”

Another classmate continued, “Maliyah is also dedicated to her schoolwork and the Pillar of Study, as she wants to be a veterinarian. She is always more than willing to help if I am struggling in a class. Finally, Maliyah is a friend who challenges me to stay faithful through her example. She is so joyful, the light of Christ literally shines out of her, and she is always down to go to youth group with me. I know that if I need any help, spiritually or academically, I can go to her for good advice. I think she is the perfect candidate for the Dominican Torch Award.”

A teacher wrote: “Maliyah is such a genuine and peace-filled young woman. She lives and breathes the Pillars in her everyday life. She is prayerful and deeply reflects on the things she learns by asking intentional questions when necessary. She is a welcoming and kind soul who fosters community and is always ready and willing to help those in need. She is an excellent choice to receive the Dominican Torch Award.”

Ann Carter Petro, SAA Grade 11

A teacher wrote, “Ann Carter espouses the Pillar of Prayer as a member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help parish, and through her involvement as a school Retreat Leader as well as SEARCH.   Ann Carter demonstrates the Pillar of Study by her outstanding and conscientious academic performance, always interested and willing to learn. Ann Carter’s involvement in Student Government as Vice President-Elect and the Forever Friends club, which is dedicated to maintaining service to the students of Madonna Learning Center, demonstrates her commitment to the Pillar of Community.

Finally, Ann Carter has exemplified the Pillar of Service through her involvement in the Catholic Work Camp, an organization that serves the neglected, brokenhearted, and marginalized of our community.

Several students remarked that Ann Carter is always optimistic, dependable, and helpful to her fellow students, and a true friend to many.  In short, she is a role model who espouses the values we strive to teach at St. Agnes Academy.

Grace Togbo, SAA Grade 12

Grace is a student who truly shines in every Pillar our school celebrates. She is caring, optimistic, and always willing to help others, bringing a joyful spirit to all that she does and to everyone she encounters.

A teacher said, “Grace is caring, optimistic, and helpful. She is always willing to support her peers, her teachers, and her family. Grace exemplifies partnership, friendship, and multicultural awareness. As President of the Multicultural Club and a leader in many organizations, she builds relationships on and off campus and shows the love of Christ through her actions. It has been a joy to watch her grow over the past four years, and while it is hard to see her go, her future is as bright as her smile every single day.”

A classmate said, “Grace exemplifies this honor through her eagerness to participate. She never hesitates to raise her hand to answer a question or lead prayer. She collaborates with energy and brings thoughtful, creative ideas to every project. During the Caritas Project, she showed up fully--attending service events, contributing to presentations, and supporting her group. Beyond that, she gives of herself to others in simple, meaningful ways, like giving up her lunch to help a friend. The small moments with Grace are the ones that become lasting memories.”

Grace’s joyful leadership, generous heart, and faithful witness make her a true light in our community.